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Hurricanes Sharpen Focus on Emergency Planning

Household Emergency Plans

Start your emergency plan by discussing these four questions with your family, friends or household:

How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings? Remember text messages are often more reliable in an emergency, given service disruptions, and whenever possible, keep cell phones and mobile devices charged.

What is my shelter plan? Remember to establish meeting locations both locally as well as out of state.

What is my evacuation route? Remember to establish alternate routes in case certain areas are impassable or plans must change quickly.

What is my family/household communication plan? Remember also to establish an out-of-state communication contact in case cellular service becomes unavailable.

Draft the emergency plan and keep it in an easily accessible location. Practice the plan with your family.

From these answers, draft the emergency plan and keep it in an easily accessible location. Practice the plan with your family.

Emergency Kit Needs

In an emergency kit, important supplies include the typical three day’s supply of water and non-perishable food, a first-aid kit and flashlight with extra batteries. Remember to have necessary medications on hand.

To assemble your kit, store items in airtight plastic bags and put your entire disaster supplies kit in one or two easy-to-carry containers such as plastic bins or a duffel bag.